5 Historical Figures You Encounter in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Let us take a deep dive into Japan’s rich culture and look at five historical figures you encounter in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has managed to keep the game as historically accurate as real-life events. Characters in the story, including the protagonist, are all inspired by true incidents that transpired during that period in Japan. In this article, we will look at five historical figures whom we encounter in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Oda Nobunaga

He was known for his pivotal role in 16th-century Japan. Oda Nobunaga was renowned for being one of the major influences behind the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period. The game rightfully captures his essence of leadership and portrays him during the height of his reign, followed by his victorious claim over the Takeda Clan.

He serves as the lord to Yasuke, a direct provider of the story of the samurai, and a key influencer on Yasuke’s journey. Yasuke performs seppuku, a form of ritualistic suicide in Japan, during his last encounter with Naoe. He honors this request and completes the ritual by slicing his head off his shoulders.

Yasuke, Protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

He is one of the two main protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the other being Naoe. Yasuke’s journey is unique from the rest, as he was an African-born samurai warrior. Early on, his potential and determination were highly appreciated, after which he was taken under the wing of Nobunaga.

Yasuke had a historic run from being a looked-down-upon warrior to achieving the status of a samurai, providing a unique perspective on the rich culture and traditions of Japan. Unlike Naoe’s stealth playstyle, Yasuke relied on an explosive and brutal style of combat, roughening up his enemies in the process.

Hattori Hanzō

He is a historical figure who plays a crucial part in the final events that unfold in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Hattori Hanzō is primarily known for his strategic prowess and his talents as a martial artist. He was both a master ninja and a legendary samurai.

The game leans into Naoe’s character growth and early learning days under the guidance of Hanzō. This was crucial in changing Naoe’s perspective on life and extracting the bug of revenge implanted inside her. Through its many cutscenes and quests, the game depicts the rich traditions of ninja art and its pivotal role during this political period.

Akechi Mitsuhide

He was both a samurai and an acting general under the rule of Oda Nobunaga. Akechi Mitsuhide conspired with Naoe and led an attack against Nobunaga, resulting in one of the biggest betrayals of that period. This betrayal ultimately led to Nobunaga’s demise in the Honnō-ji incident. This story of betrayal is shown in full in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Akechi Mitsuhide is a complex character, adding an intense amount of depth to the story. During the mission “Friend of My Enemy,” Naoe will face the crucial decision to either trust or doubt Mitsuhide, a choice that has a significant impact on the narrative ahead.

Sen no Rikyū

He was the tea master who held profound influence over the Japanese Way of Tea. The Way of Tea is a traditional Japanese practice that consists of a ceremonial preparation of matcha, symbolizing harmony, respect, and purity among the participants.

Sen no Rikyū’s inclusion in Assassin’s Creed Shadows brings a breath of fresh air and accurately highlights the cultural aspects of that period. As Yasuke or Naoe, players get to interact with him through various quests.

Also read: “Cultural References Have Been Very Positive”: Pirate Software Gives His Take on Assassin’s Creed Shadows

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We provide the latest news and create guides for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Meanwhile, you can check out the following AC Shadows articles or catch us playing games on Twitch and YouTube:

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